Diet rich in vitamins, fish oils helps keep elderly brains healthy

Elderly people with higher levels of several vitamins and omega 3 fatty acids in their blood have better performance on mental acuity tests and less of the brain shrinkage typical of Alzheimer`s disease, according to a new study.

On the other hand `junk food` diets produces just the opposite result.

The research conducted by scientists from the Oregon Health and Science University in Portland, Ore., and the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University found positive effects of high levels of vitamins B, C, D, E and the healthy oils most commonly found in fish.

`This approach clearly shows the biological and neurological activity that`s associated with actual nutrient levels, both good and bad,` said Maret Traber, a principal investigator with the Linus Pauling Institute and co-author on the study.

`The vitamins and nutrients you get from eating a wide range of fruits, vegetables and fish can be measured in blood biomarkers.